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New provost radio spot - January 16, 2026
Transcript
Shauna Johnson: This is West Virginia University. After years of traveling to and through West Virginia, the incoming provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Beverly Wendland is already a fan of the home of West Virginia University.
Beverly Wendland It's just such a beautiful state and a beautiful place and the people are wonderful and warm and what's not to love.
Shauna Johnson: Hired by President Michael T. Benson to serve as the university's Chief Academic Officer. Wendland, a cell biologist with experience as a faculty member, department chair, dean and provost says there are a couple of reasons why she wanted the job.
Beverly Wendland: First, just the university itself and the amazing foundations of strength that it has to build from. As I engaged with the search process, I was amazed at all of the incredible things that are happening here at WVU, and I wanted to be a part of that. And then the second thing was President Benson. He is an amazing leader. I have heard wonderful things about him and I couldn't be more excited to join his leadership team.
Shauna Johnson:: Her position is a key one.
Beverly Wendland: The academics are the heart of a university. It's the faculty, it's the students, it's the programs that are offered. To be responsible for all of that is a huge honor and a big responsibility that I'm excited to take on.
Shauna Johnson: After most recently serving as provost and a senior advisor at Washington University in St. Louis, Wendland's already engaging with members of the WVU community ahead of her official start date on July 1st.
Beverly Wendland: I want them to know that I am an approachable person. I want to know what they think and what they're worried about and how I can help them. I am so looking forward to becoming a part of this community.
Shauna Johnson: So let's go. Follow our stories at wvutoday.wvu.edu.
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